The legend of the Butterfly reminds me that Christmas is Christmas no matter what. Last year, was our first Christmas separated as a family. Kayla settled in Virginia following her Externship. I did my best to send her little reminders from home and keep traditions alive. This year, we are scattered upon three states, I am here with Kayla in Virginia, while Chris is up in York, Pennsylvania and we all miss Kylie who is home in Bakersfield with Grandma. It was evident from the year prior to last, that Christmas would change from then on. As it should be when our children grow and venture out into the world. "Give them roots to return to but wings to fly," as the adage says.
Maturity gleaned from past experiences ensure me my caterpillar struggles have re-emerged as butterfly wisdom. I am surely a bit older but also wiser. Here in my own Butterfly Season, I delight in my wings. Here, I appreciate my wrinkles as sourvenirs and honor the strength and functions of my muscles rather than fret over calories and opinions. Here, I understand that healthy is beautiful and beautiful is life no matter how messy or abnormal to our usual routine. I hope I have instilled this truth in our daughters and that they continue to learn and grow.
If we are learning and growing, we are living. "While there is life, there is hope," admonishes Jules Verne, the great adventure writer. Hope is one of the four Advent lessons which grace the Christmas season. Just as a butterfly emerging from its coccon reflects the resurrection of Christ, it also symbolizes our own newness when we come to trust in Him. He came and the world has never been the same. Even in this season of glitter and crowds, there are still days of melancholy. However, even the darkest winter has a promise of Spring. In this Christmastide, I pray that you find your own respite and emerge with wings which take you through the New Year!